Hidden Secrets

Chapter 76

Petzite hadn't exaggerated - the Elysium Elegance lived up to its name. As they pulled into the parking lot, a stunning sight unfolded before them. The restaurant sat serenely by a picturesque lake in one of Tokyo's outskirts, surrounded by lush greenery stretching to the horizon.

Usagi could vividly imagine how splendid this place must be in the summer; even in mid-January, the view was truly impressive. The entire building gleamed in bright splendor, and the path from the parking lot to the entrance was lined with small, round lamps, creating an almost magical atmosphere.

Usagi glanced at Taiki, and together they walked hand in hand towards the entrance, curious about what awaited them inside.

As the two entered through the heavy, ornate doors of the Elysium Elegance, they were immediately enveloped in a unique atmosphere. The interior exuded a timeless luxury, unmistakably indicating that this restaurant was meant for the affluent society. The decor was a masterful fusion of classic charm and modern design.

Tables were covered with fine cloth, adorned with elegant crockery and silverware. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a soft light over the guests, accentuating the exquisite details of the room.

The presence of the guests themselves also revealed the exclusive nature of the place. Only people with a certain income frequented this establishment; that much was clear at first glance.

Taiki's eyes swept across the room, and he immediately recognized some of his business associates sitting at one of the tables, engaged in lively conversations. With a polite nod and a warm smile, he greeted them.

The lady at the reception desk, a young woman with a professional yet warm demeanor, immediately recognized the couple and greeted them with a radiant smile. "Welcome, Mr. and Mrs. Kou," she said in a pleasant voice. "We're delighted to have you here today. Please follow me; I have a lovely table overlooking the lake reserved for you."

With an elegant gesture, she invited them to follow her as she skillfully navigated through the bustling scenery of the restaurant. The eyes of some of the other guests followed them, and Usagi felt the curious gazes upon her as they walked through the room.

The lady led them to a beautiful table overlooking the lake, illuminated by the sparkling lights of the crystal chandeliers. A gentle touch of sophistication hung in the air as they sat down and received the menu that was handed to them.

Even before she had properly looked through the menu, Usagi noticed that Taiki wasn't quite present. Although his gaze was on the menu, it seemed almost vacant, as if something were weighing heavily on his mind.

"What's wrong?" she asked him directly, and finally, he looked up.

"Sorry, what did you say?" Taiki politely asked her to repeat her question. His thoughts were indeed preoccupied with the numerous problems ahead of him.

"Taiki, I can see clearly that something's not right. Your mind seems elsewhere. What's bothering you?"

He took a sip of his water, contemplating his next move carefully. "Serena, I think you should go back to Shingo with Amy. My gut tells me something's definitely off here; first, Minako's sudden appearance, and then there's your father... he's too quiet. You'll be safer with Setsuna, far enough away."

She grasped his hand, and he met her gaze. "No, my place is right here by your side and beside Seiya. Between you and my father. I won't hide from him anymore. Besides, next week marks the opening of the homeless shelter. I haven't worked on it for weeks just to be absent at the opening. Makoto is doing a good job too... I'm never alone when I'm outside the tower, and it'll stay that way. I promise."